Port of Tilbury

Port of Tilbury London Ltd appointed Erith as principal contractor following a rare dust explosion at the Tilbury Grain Terminal. The blast severely damaged the roof of the grain store and compromised the structural integrity of 50 silos within silo number 4.

In the aftermath, we played a pivotal role in the emergency response, collaborating with Essex Fire and Rescue for 20 days to secure the site. The team swiftly demolished unstable structures before meticulously removing grain from the silos, ultimately bringing the structures down to ground slab level.

Working closely with our in-house designers, Swanton Consulting, we developed a detailed method statement with special consideration for the sites proximity to the River Thames. Consultations with multiple entities, including the Environment Agency and port authorities, ensured that all safety and environmental risks and concerns were addressed, and the Safe Statement of Works (SSOW) was approved.

The project demanded innovative temporary works, such as the installation of a backfilled pad to allow machines to safely track alongside the silos and the installation of scaffolding across remaining structures to safeguard from demolition debris.

 
A variety of demolition methods were employed, including crane lifting, high reach excavator and both hot and cold cutting techniques. A stringent hot works permit system was enforced, with port authority oversight and strategic fire watcher placements, during and after completion.

Situated within a live port environment, real-time monitoring of noise, dust, vibration and structural stability was imperative. Instant alerts enabled prompt management decisions, ensuring adherence to methodological adjustments and safety countermeasures. Gas monitoring was also a constant throughout the project to guarantee the safety of all operatives.

The project’s success and safety record led to Erith receiving the World Demolition Award for Industrial Demolition. Subsequently, we have been re-engaged by POTLL for further projects, including the asbestos removal and demolition of two redundant warehouse structures, the distribution, spread and levelling of crushed 6f2 material at the coal yard to create a compacted and clean surface to be used for parking and general storage and most recently works at the Rubb Sheds at 40 Berth involving the demolition of two identical storage structures within the live port area.